Title: From diagnosis to decision: Evidence based choices in general dental practice
Abstract:
Clinical decision-making in general dental practice often lies at the intersection of scientific evidence, clinical experience, and patient expectations. Despite the growing availability of research and guidelines, translating evidence into everyday clinical decisions remains a challenge for many practitioners. This presentation aims to bridge the gap between diagnosis and treatment planning by emphasizing evidence-based decision-making in routine dental practice. The session will explore common diagnostic dilemmas faced by general dentists, including caries management, restorative choices, periodontal decision-making, and treatment planning under constraints of time, cost, and patient preferences. Emphasis will be placed on applying the principles of evidence-based dentistry best available evidence, clinical expertise, and patient values to arrive at rational and predictable clinical decisions. Practical examples, clinical scenarios, and simplified decision pathways will be discussed to demonstrate how evidence can guide everyday choices without overcomplicating practice. The presentation concludes by reinforcing that evidence-based decisions enhance treatment outcomes, reduce failures, and improve patient trust in general dental practice.
